10 best tree removal companies in Joliet, Illinois

Healthy trees contribute to your home's curb appeal and provide a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can compromise your property. Tree removal may be necessary if it is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Licensed tree removal professionals in Joliet can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

It's essential to remove diseased trees, trees with high fall risk and trees that are damaging your foundation. However, undertaking this task yourself increases the potential for physical harm and property damage.

When you hire a reputable tree removal company in Joliet, you'll have a skilled team to safely remove your tree with specialized cutting techniques and equipment in accordance with local ordinances and permit requirements.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Joliet

Look for tree removal companies in Joliet with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). Use the filters below to help you find the right company for your needs.

How do you know a tree needs to be removed?

Consider removing a tree if you observe severe damage or decay, or if its roots or offshoots are growing too close to your house. The number of decayed trees in Joliet is marginally low compared to other American cities. Consider contacting a tree removal expert if any of the following apply to your tree:

The tree has diseases, pests or mold weakening its structure. The tree is dropping far more needles, leaves, seeds, branches or sap than usual. The tree's branches or trunk are cracked and won't heal. The tree or its offshoots are dangerously close to your home or another structure on your property. The tree has damage from heavy rain or thunderstorms. The tree is severely burned or visibly dead. The tree's roots are making your home's foundation crack or lift.

If you spot raised dirt around the base of the trunk, or if the tree is starting to lean, it's in danger of falling. Contact a tree removal expert as soon as possible to assess the extent of the damage and take down the tree if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

When a tree has irreparable structural defects that put it at elevated risk of falling, it becomes a hazard tree, sometimes called a danger tree. A falling tree could damage or injure pets, people, property and vehicles. Signs of a structural defect include dead branches, large cracks, loose bark, rotten wood and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, remove it as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Some tree removal companies offer a range of extra services in addition to cutting down trees. These may include the following:

• Stump removal: After the team finishes removing your tree, only the stump will be left. You can choose to grind down the stump so it will more easily decompose. A contractor can also completely remove the stump in some cases. While this is more expensive than grinding, it guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Wood chipping: Tree removal professionals often use wood chippers to break down tree trunks and branches. If you choose, you can use the chips as mulch to promote plant growth in your garden.
• Debris removal: Tree removal usually leaves behind large debris such as branches, logs and leaves. A professional can use a dump truck or flatbed to haul away debris.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal companies provide landscaping services. This could include filling the hole where the tree stump was or planting a new tree.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Joliet

Follow these steps to make the most informed tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are scientific experts that help you care for your trees. They may recommend health restoration services for your tree or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on planting, moving and pruning trees for optimal growth and well-being. Illinois doesn't have arborist licensing rules, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have three years of field experience and pass an exam to earn certification. ISA-certified arborists have the experience, skills and knowledge to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, ensure it has comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, workers compensation and business liability. This coverage protects you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. City and county governments often set their own tree removal licensing laws. A contractor in Joliet doesn't need a state license if tree removal is the only service they offer. We recommend contacting the Joliet building department and your county to ensure a prospective contractor is properly licensed.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive professional advice on whether removing a tree is necessary. The assessment also presents the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. During the TRA, an arborist will evaluate a tree's likelihood of falling and the damage that could result. First, they'll inspect the tree from a distance, looking for obvious damage signs. Next, they'll inspect the roots, trunk and crown by circumnavigating the tree. Some arborists use specific tools to examine the tree's internal structure.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal contractors offer free estimates and consultations. Obtain quotes from at least two providers to assess their prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask neighbors, friends and family for recommendations for tree removal companies in your area. It's also wise to read online reviews on sites like Yelp, BBB and Google Reviews.

Our methodology for selecting tree removal companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.